The Significance of the Month of May

May 8, 2017admin

May is designated as Mental Health Month. The theme for 2017 is “Risky Business”, bringing attention to the importance of addressing mental health symptoms early, and identifying when behaviors and habit can be unhealthy. Mental Health Month is also defined as a time when we all need to help reduce the stigma surrounding those afflicted with mental health issues.

Nearly 1 in 5 adults in the United States experience mental illness in any given year. This translates to well over 40 million Americans. In addition, 20 percent of all youths ages 13-18 are living with a mental health condition. On average, 56 percent of American adults with a mental illness do not receive treatment due to a combination of factors–not reaching out for help, government assistance, or a shortage of mental health professionals. Arkansas, Mississippi and Alabama have the least access to care and the highest rates of incarceration for those afflicted with mental illness.

Our Note: Mental Health America is a terrific advocacy group for those suffering from mental health since 1949. MHA reaches out to millions of people to foster a better understanding of the pain suffered by those afflicted with mental health issues and the stigma surrounding them. For more information on Mental Health Month check out: http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/may

Source: Mental Health America

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